Southwest Plus Card: 80,000 Points for $1,000 Spend — But the Clock Is Ticking

Southwest's Rapid Rewards Plus card just got a much bigger welcome bonus: 80,000 points after you spend $1,000 in the first three months. That's a hefty return on a relatively small spend, especially if you're chasing a Companion Pass before Southwest's program changes kick in. But there are a few hoops to jump through, and the offer isn't available everywhere yet.

Why This Bonus Is Worth a Look

Earning 80,000 points from just $1,000 in spending is a rare ratio. At a conservative value of 1.3 cents per point, that's over $1,000 in flight value — essentially a free round-trip (or two) for a modest amount of spend.

The card also comes with a $99 annual fee, but the yearly perks — like 3,000 bonus points at renewal and 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points — can offset that if you fly Southwest regularly.

The Companion Pass Window Is Closing

Southwest is overhauling its Companion Pass program. If you want your welcome bonus to count toward a Companion Pass valid through 2027, you need to apply and be approved by December 2, 2026. That's true even if you finish the $1,000 spend in early 2027 — Southwest has confirmed the bonus points will still count.

Normally, earning a Companion Pass as a cardholder requires 125,000 qualifying points in a calendar year. This bonus gets you about two-thirds of the way there, so it's a solid head start if you're making a final push.

Early Access Means Limited Availability

Right now, this 80,000-point offer is an 'Early Access Offer' for Rapid Rewards members. That means you won't find it through referrals or affiliate links — at least not yet. It may eventually open up to everyone, so if you're not in a hurry, you could wait to see if it becomes available via household or friend referrals.

But if you're aiming for that Companion Pass deadline, waiting might not be an option.

Who Can Actually Get This Card

Chase has strict rules for Southwest cards. You're not eligible for this welcome offer if you currently hold a personal Southwest card or if you've received a welcome bonus on any personal Southwest card in the past 24 months. Business cards are treated separately, so you could potentially get both a consumer and a business card.

Also keep Chase's 5/24 rule in mind: if you've opened five or more credit cards (from any bank) in the past 24 months, approval is unlikely. Most business cards don't count toward that total.

Practical Advice Before You Apply

First, check your 5/24 status. Then confirm you haven't had a personal Southwest bonus in the last two years. If you're eligible, the application is straightforward, but be prepared to call Chase if you're denied — reconsideration can sometimes work, especially if you offer to move credit from an existing card.

One more thing: this card's ongoing value depends on using the annual perks. If you don't fly Southwest often, the $99 fee might not be worth it after the first year.

• Check your 5/24 count before applying — it's the biggest hurdle.
• Remember the 24-month rule for personal Southwest bonuses.
• If denied, call Chase reconsideration at (888) 270-2127 for personal cards.
• To check application status, call (888) 338-2586.

Bottom Line

• 80,000 points after $1,000 spend is an excellent return, worth roughly $1,040 in flights.
• Apply by 12/2/26 to have bonus points count toward a 2027 Companion Pass.
• Offer is currently Early Access only — may expand to referrals later.
• You're ineligible if you've had a personal Southwest bonus in the past 24 months.
• Chase's 5/24 rule applies, so check your card count first.

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